Congregation Etz Chayim

The Reform, Orthodox, and Conservative movements in Judaism emerged out of sociopolitical contexts impacting Jewish life in Europe and the US in the 19th century. Different dynamics shaped Judaism in the Balkans, North Africa, and the Middle East, particularly in the former Ottoman Empire. What factors impeded denominationalism among Sephardic Jews? How has Sephardic Judaism developed over the generations and geographies? How has Sephardic Judaism dealt with questions about the role of women and egalitarianism? How have Reform and Conservative Judaism addressed Sephardic Judaism?

We live in a polarized society in challenging times. These circumstances are not new to the Jewish people. Indeed, there is great Jewish wisdom from the ages to help us navigate and thrive in this kind of environment. Abra Greenspan will lead us in Getting to and Beyond “Agreeing to Disagree”, a multi-session adult learning series that will explore how our tradition approaches constructive disagreement.

Following a recent meeting about the relaunch of the Peninsula Masorati Chevra Kadisha, Rabbi Chaim Koritzinsky and Louis Newman will gather Etzniks interested in participating in this holy mitzvah to discuss what it entails. Rabbi Chaim will begin with a teaching and Louis Newman will share his experience and answer questions. No experience or prior participation necessary to attend. Click through to sign up.